The Government of India has escalated its maritime monitoring and preparedness due to growing tensions in West Asia, emphasizing the safeguarding of Indian seafarers and vessels. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPS&W) is actively collaborating with various ministries and stakeholders to ensure the continuous tracking of vessels and the safety of maritime operations.
A 24-hour helpline at the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has been established for immediate assistance, while the ministry reported that 35 Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf are closely monitored. Specifically, 24 of these vessels are located west of the Strait of Hormuz, while 11 are positioned to the east, with an additional three in the Gulf of Aden. Regular hourly tracking of vessel locations is conducted through the Long-Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) National Data Centre, enabling real-time updates and situational awareness.
In response to potential risks in the region, the government has issued advisories urging Indian-flagged vessels and seafarers to reinforce security measures and adhere to stringent reporting protocols. An urgent circular, released on February 28, instructed Indian seafarers to register with the Indian embassy in Tehran and submit their crew details to the DGS, highlighting the importance of ongoing communication and situational awareness.
The inter-ministerial review meetings convened by the MoPS&W, which involve stakeholders from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas among others, assess the implications of regional tensions on maritime trade and operations. While no incidents involving Indian-flagged ships have been confirmed, the ministry remains vigilant, continuously monitoring movements and facilitating operational support for exporters.
To maintain the stability of port operations across India amid evolving regional risks, major ports have implemented measures to track vessel movements and ensure the well-being of cargo, specifically perishable goods which require prioritized handling. Trade organizations and vessel operators are urged to conduct voyage-specific risk assessments for operations in sensitive areas.
Overall, the Indian government is committed to maintaining operational preparedness and ensuring that maritime trade remains uninterrupted, all while prioritizing seafarer safety. The ongoing coordination among ministries and industry bodies is vital in navigating the complexities posed by the regional maritime landscape. This comprehensive approach aims to secure India’s maritime interests and ensure the safety of its seafaring personnel during this turbulent period.
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